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The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

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Mosquito Bite Prevention

For questions, requests and comments, contact the STD section at:

We encourage Florida residents and visitors to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses by draining standing water; covering their skin with repellent and clothing; covering windows with screens; and other basic precautions included in “drain and cover.”

 DRAINstanding water to stop mosquitoes from multiplying

  • Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected.
  • Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren't being used.
  • Empty and clean birdbaths and pet's water bowls at least once or twice a week.
  • Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water.
  • Maintain swimming pools in good condition and appropriately chlorinated. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.

 Tips on Repellent Use

  • Always read label directions carefully for the approved usage before applying a repellent to skin.  Some repellents are not suitable for children.
  • Products with concentrations of up to 30 percent DEET are generally recommended.  Other potential mosquito repellents contain picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535.  These products are generally available at local pharmacies.  Look for active ingredients to be listed on the product label. 
  • Apply insect repellent to exposed skin, or onto clothing, but not under clothing
  • In protecting children, read label instructions to be sure the repellent is age-appropriate.  According to the CDC, mosquito repellents containing oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under the age of 3 years.  DEET is not recommended on children younger than 2 months old.
  • Infants should be kept indoors or mosquito netting should be used over carriers when mosquitoes are present.
  • Avoid applying repellents to the hands of children.  Adults should apply repellent first to their own hands and then transfer it to the child’s skin and clothing.  
  • If additional protection is necessary, apply a permethrin repellent directly to your clothing.  Again, always follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Remember, mosquitoes can bite day and night and can live indoors. Keep mosquitoes outside by closing doors and cover windows with screens.

Additional Resources 

Additional Resources

CDC: West Nile Virus

Gulf County Mosquito Control Division: (850) 227-1401

FloridaHealth: Mosquito-borne Diseases in Florida